WWE Raw (May 4): Start Time, Matches, Segments for Backlash Go-Home Show
WWE Raw is tonight at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT live on Netflix from the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, serving as WWE's final Raw before Backlash this Saturday. With multiple rivalries reaching a boiling point ahead of this weekend's Premium Live Event, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce announced a loaded go-home show, headlined by a contract signing between World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu for their title match.
Here's a full preview of tonight's Raw.
Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu Contract Signing
Saturday's World Heavyweight Championship match becomes official tonight as Reigns and Fatu meet face-to-face for the final time before Backlash.
The contract signing comes one week after Fatu blindsided Reigns and applied the Tongan Death Grip, escalating a deeply personal family rivalry. With The Usos aligned with Roman and Fatu growing more dangerous by the week, don't expect this to end with words alone.
The Oba Femi Open Challenge
Oba Femi isn't slowing down.
Pearce confirmed the Open Challenge begins tonight, giving a new challenger an opportunity against The Ruler following his statement win over Brock Lesnar. Whether it's a quick showcase or the beginning of Oba's next rivalry, tonight should push Femi toward his eventual world title victory.
Asuka and Iyo Sky Sit-Down Interview
One of Backlash's most anticipated matches gets one final verbal confrontation tonight.
Pearce announced that Asuka and Iyo Sky will "sit down and lay it all on the line" before Saturday, giving fans one last look at the rivalry before the bell rings.
Finn Balor vs. JD McDonagh
Judgment Day tension continues as Balor meets McDonagh in a rematch.
Balor defeated JD the last time they met, but with Dominik Mysterio and Roxanne Perez involved, JD could get the win over his former mentor tonight.
Je'Von Evans & Penta vs. Rusev & Ethan Page
These four appear to be on a collision course for a Fatal Four-Way Match-possibly as soon as Saturday Night's Main Event later this month.
If that's the direction WWE is heading, Ethan Page feels like the most likely candidate to eventually win the title from Penta.
What Else to Watch For
While not officially announced by Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker are both advertised for tonight's Raw ahead of their one-on-one match at Backlash this Saturday.
Also worth watching is the ongoing tension between The Vision and The Street Profits. While Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins came to Rollins' aid two weeks ago, it does not appear they have any interest in an ongoing alliance.
Related: Why Fans Are Afraid Roman Reigns Will Leave WWE: Full Explanation
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This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 7:00 AM.